If you apply for a job in Japan, you'll likely be asked for a rirekisho (履歴書) — Japan's standardised resume. It's quite different from a Western CV: instead of a design you craft yourself, it follows a fixed template that everyone uses. Here's how to get it right.

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What is a rirekisho?

The rirekisho is a standard-format Japanese resume. You fill in a set template rather than designing your own layout. Because the format is fixed, what stands out is neatness, accuracy, and completeness — not creative design. Templates are widely available (stationery stores and online).

The standard sections

  • Personal details — name, date of birth, address, contact, and a photo (typically formal, business attire).
  • Date of submission.
  • Education and work history — listed in chronological order, with entry and exit dates for each.
  • Qualifications and licences — including language tests like JLPT / JFT-Basic, which are a real asset.
  • Motivation / self-PR section — why you want the role and what you bring.
  • Personal requests — e.g. commute, working preferences, where relevant.

How it differs from a Western CV

  • Fixed format, not a custom design.
  • A photo is expected (unlike many Western countries).
  • Dates often use the Japanese era calendar in traditional templates — double-check the format your template uses.
  • Neatness is judged — if handwritten, write carefully; many now submit typed versions, which is increasingly accepted.

Rirekisho vs shokumu-keirekisho

For skilled and professional roles, you may also be asked for a shokumu-keirekisho (職務経歴書) — a more detailed work-history document describing your responsibilities and achievements. Think of the rirekisho as the standard form and the shokumu-keirekisho as the deeper career story.

How to prepare a strong rirekisho

  1. Use a standard template and fill every relevant field — blanks look careless.
  2. Add a neat, formal photo.
  3. List history in order with accurate dates.
  4. Include your language qualifications (JLPT/JFT-Basic) prominently.
  5. Write a genuine motivation section — specific to the employer, not generic.
  6. Proofread carefully — accuracy and tidiness are part of the impression.

Strong Japanese helps you write a convincing motivation section — build it free with Komichi's decks. This is general information, not career advice; confirm the format your employer expects.